Faith Feature Friday: Mr Paul Pardede

Meet Mr Paul Pardede

Mr Paul Pardede is one of our wonderful RTO Trainers at Faith, teaching Christian Ministry and Theology, Music and Skills for Work & Vocational Pathways!

Hi, I'm Paul! After serving in ministry for many years, my wife and I felt the call to plant a church. I left full-time ministry employment and completed a graduate diploma in education in 2015. My wife and I have taught and led a church since 2016.

We have a full household of eight, caring for our three nephews and niece and our remaining daughter and son (our eldest girl is married and teaching in Townsville), so there's never a dull moment! We enjoy sports and music as a family.

More about Paul Pardede

What do you love most about your role at Faith?

What I love most about teaching/working at Faith is the top priority Christ is given at our school, the opportunity and encouragement to openly share our faith and the quality of students we have at Faith.

What is a fun fact about you?

A fun fact about me is that for eight years I lived and studied at an American boarding school for missionary kids on an island in Malaysia...that's why I have an American accent!

What inspired you to work in your current role?

My wife recognised I had a gift for teaching after seeing the positive responses from four RI classes in state schools, most accepting Christ in their hearts, and encouraged me to pursue teaching as a career. It's been the most rewarding change.

Where is your favourite place on earth, and why?

I have too many favourite places on earth to name, but my wife and I love the beach and find it calming, and it refills our tanks. I grew up on the island of Penang, Malaysia, and have loved the beach since then.

What is the most rewarding part of working with students?

Generally speaking the most rewarding part of working with students is seeing the lights turn on, or that smile that fills their face when they worked hard and see results. More importantly, it's about seeing the students grow strong in the Lord.

What is your favorite book or film and why?

My favorite book will always be the Bible, but my favorite movie is Ben-Hur (starring Charlton Heston). I love its underlying theme of God's power to restore a soul, woven into an epic adventure whose character goes from prince to slave to redeemed son.